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Adages are timeless for a reason. And in today’s hyper-connected world, the following truths feel more relevant than ever.

1. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is
   Since the advent of the internet, we’ve been inundated with ads promising the impossible: instant wealth, flawless skin in days or losing 20 kg in a week. Our feeds are a minefield of too-good-to-be-true offers. If there’s an easy shortcut to be sold, chances are someone online is already selling it, wrapped in hype and dressed as a miracle.
2. A picture is worth a thousand words
   This rings especially true on social media, where visual content dominates. Platforms are flooded with “look at me” photos showcasing perfect lives: sun-drenched beaches, gourmet meals, families that don’t appear dysfunctional and shiny new purchases. Social media is an endless stream of curated highlight reels packed with staged or photoshopped — now even easier with AI tools — pictures and videos. I know several couples who always appear flawless on Instagram but are actually facing relationship issues, proving that pictures don’t always reflect the messy reality behind the image.
3. Birds of a feather flock together
   The internet has made it easier than ever to connect with like-minded individuals, providing endless evidence of this adage. A major reason for social media’s popularity is its ability to form digital communities where people share similar interests, beliefs and values, offering support and validation. Whether you’re into knitting, extreme pickleball, libertarian politics, LGBTQ music events or UFO hunting in Northern Ontario, there’s a group for you somewhere online. But be cautious — sometimes these “flocks” lead to rabbit holes, promoting pseudoscience, conspiracy theories or reinforcing limiting beliefs.
4. Fortune favours the bold
   In today’s noisy online world, boldness often brings rewards. As platforms grow more crowded, standing out increasingly requires outrageous stunts — parkour videos, extreme eating, hanging off cranes, emotionally raw posts or deliberate controversy. But boldness comes at a price. Controversial takes may attract engagement, but they also risk lasting backlash. Online boldness isn’t the same as strategic presence. Think before you post — bold doesn’t always mean wise.
5. The only free cheese is in the mousetrap
   “Free” is tempting, which is why the internet is full of offers like free trials, giveaways and “just pay shipping” gimmicks. We know there’s often a catch, but we keep falling for it. Who hasn’t signed up for a free trial, only to get trapped in a loop of cancellations and charges? Before biting into that free cheese, ask yourself: is this a deal or a trap?
6. A sucker is born every minute
   Scammers have taken this adage to new levels online, from phishing emails to fake lottery wins and cryptocurrency “investments.” New scams appear daily, waiting to part you from your money. The next time you get an email claiming you’ve won a contest you never entered, consider it a test of your digital common sense.
7. Bad news travels fast
   Online, one erroneous tweet can trigger a mob and become a trending topic faster than you can say “viral.” A minor celebrity mishap can turn into a scandal within hours. People rush to judge a post from someone they’ve never met, without knowing the context or full story. In an age of instant outrage, even a careless comment can spiral into infamy. Pause before you post — judgment is fast, forgiveness is rare.
8. Advice is cheap
   There’s no shortage of advice online, and it’s often as abundant and questionable as the latest money-making schemes. Just because someone has a blog, a podcast or 750,000 followers doesn’t make them an expert. Take online advice with a grain of salt, and never take advice from someone who hasn’t achieved the results you aspire to.
9. A fool and his money are soon parted
   Online spending is effortless — and often impulsive. My smartphone sometimes pings with delivery notifications, prompting my wife to ask, “What did you buy now?” Who hasn’t clicked “Buy Now,” only to wonder later what they were thinking? Before buying, pause and ask: do I really need this, or am I just being one more fool parting with my money?

These age-old sayings remind us to be skeptical, savvy and self-aware online. In a digital world full of noise, hype and traps, a little old-fashioned wisdom still goes a long way.

Nick Kossovan is the Social Media Director and an Executive Board Member of the Customer Service Professionals Network. He is a career strategist, public speaker and commentator on workplace culture, with a background in operations and talent development.

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